Easter Monday 2026

When is it?

Easter Monday 2026 falls on Monday, 6 April 2026.
It is a public and bank holiday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, marking the day after Easter Sunday. (Note: In Scotland, it’s not an official bank holiday, though many businesses and schools close.)

Easter Monday continues the joy of the Easter weekend, celebrating renewal, hope, and the arrival of spring.

What Makes It Special?

Easter Monday is a relaxed, family-focused day that follows the spiritual intensity of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It’s a time for reflection, rest, and spending time outdoors as the UK welcomes brighter, longer days.

Here’s what makes Easter Monday beloved across the UK:

• 🐣 Family Gatherings & Outings:
  Families take advantage of the long weekend for picnics, walks, and family visits. Parks, beaches, and countryside areas are often bustling with people enjoying the fresh spring air.
• 🏇 Sporting Traditions:
  Easter Monday has long been associated with horse racing and football matches, with events held in towns and cities across Britain — a blend of leisure and excitement.
• 🧺 Easter Egg Hunts:
  Many children (and adults!) join in on Easter egg hunts held in gardens, parks, or organized community events — a fun continuation of Easter Sunday’s joy.
• ✝️ Religious Reflection:
  For many, it’s also a quieter day of gratitude and reflection, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of new beginnings.

Fun Fact

The Easter date changes each year because it’s based on the lunar calendar — it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. That’s why Easter Monday can fall anywhere between March 23 and April 26.

Ways to Celebrate in 2026

• Enjoy a family picnic or countryside walk 🌳
• Take part in a local Easter egg hunt 🥚
• Watch a traditional Easter Monday sporting event ⚽🏇
• Host a casual get-together or barbecue
• Spend time reflecting on gratitude and renewal